Holiday gift guide for people with chronic illness

Holidays have never been easy for me for a variety of reasons. They’re exhausting for me to even think about. As a mom with chronic illness, I often struggle with comparing myself with other moms who are able to keep up the frenzied pace of parenting, appointments and activities. I’m really thankful for an understanding husband and kids who do not make me feel guilty for not being able to do what I was able to do ten years back, or compare me with other moms.

If you’re wondering what you should put on your holiday gift list, my Holiday Gift Guide for Moms with Chronic Illness suggestions are little luxuries that I’ve found over time that help me to cope with being home, struggling with isolation and in pain much of the time.

Heating Pad – Even though I’m over 50 and live in a subtropical climate, I’m always freezing because of the air conditioning everywhere and tile floors. I use it for relief of the frequent muscle spasms I live with because of dystonia and the ongoing pelvic pain from ongoing gyn problems. I’m beginning to think about a heated blanket too. Don’t tell my husband!

Colors of Hope – I get a little overwhelmed with typical adult coloring books but I really enjoy this series of coloring books. It’s cheerful and easy to color in. I’ve also been loving Joy for the Journey.

Beyond Suffering Bible – Being homebound can get depressing, to say the least. The most important thing I can do every day is to check in with God and align my thoughts so that negative thinking doesn’t get out of hand. This Bible is from one of my disability heroes, Joni Earickson Tada and has much to encourage those who struggling with chronic pain and disability.

Streams in The Desert devotional – I’ve had this for years and never get tired of it. It’s fantastic encouragement for those who are going through trials and hard times.

Fuzzy socks are another go-to comfort item for me (even in summer.) I can’t relax if my feet aren’t covered!

Ipad – It’s a splurge, I know. But it’s been my sanity saver since my diagnosis in 2010 and couldn’t sit at a computer for a year. I use it for social media, checking email and the Kindle app for reading, shopping, exercising and just about everything! And yes, mine is rose gold…it makes me happy!

Headphones – I enjoy listening to music and podcasts when I’m too tired to read or watch anything. A nice set is a huge treat!

Kindle Paperwhite – I got one this year even though I already had an iPad. I like to use it when I’m sitting around doctor’s offices with spotty wifi and at the beach when the glare is too strong to use a tablet.

Do you have any great suggestions to add to this gift guide for moms with chronic illness? I’d love to hear them!

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